Author's Interview with Shawn McClintock.

Before we dive into our exciting conversation with today’s remarkable author, let’s start by getting to know the creative mind behind the diverse and captivating stories. 

1. Could you please introduce yourself to us? 

Hi, my name is Shawn McClintock.

2. Congratulations on your book! What inspired you to write it?

Thank you. I’ve always had a love of creative writing and creating new stories and developing characters. The inspiration actually started from a dream I had. I woke up from it and immediately wrote it down in my notes. During the day I started to think more about the dream and how I could really branch off of it and create a full story.

 

3. What is your book about?

The book is a cosmic psychological horror story about three friends who drive up to the north Maine woods for a low-key weekend and make one very bad decision during their hike.

4. Why did you choose this genre for your book?

I’ve always loved horror since I could remember. Enjoyed the thrill, the adrenaline and atmosphere. Also love how open world horror is. Theres so many sub genres to sink your teeth in.

5. How long did it take you to complete the book?

It took me a month to complete my first draft. I wrote every day between 2-4 hours. It was a fun creative process and although I never really took a break, I still fully enjoyed it because new ideas frequently kept popping in my head. 

6. What makes your book special? 

What makes my book special is how it’s not just a horror novel with spooks and jump scares. There’s a deeper meaning to what is happening with the characters. It stays with you and makes you think long after the last page. 

7. When can we expect your next book?

Within a year! I already have ideas and wrote the first chapter. It’ll be another dark psychological horror novel. I have many ideas in the horror genre that I want to bring to life. 

8. Did you experience writer’s block while writing? What advice would you give to others who face it?

Honestly I didn’t. I think what helped was I had five ideas already planned before writing. And I started to create the story throughout the five ideas. One idea was deep in the middle while the other was near the beginning. It made it easier to write before and after the ideas. There were definitely moments when I wrote less words that day versus the next. Best thing to do is to take a break. Go for a walk, run some errands. Don’t think about the writing process for a bit to refuel your creativity. 

9. Besides being a talented author, what are your other hobbies?

I love teaching dance. Ive been a dancer teacher for 12 years now recreationally and competitively. I also enjoy being active outdoors. I’m what people would call a minor adrenaline junky. I love skydiving, roller coasters, parasailing, and anything that brings your heart rate up. 

10. Last but not least, how did you feel during this interview? 

Great! Hope you consider reading the novel and hop on this journey with me.

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